Sheikh Mohammed launches UAE Pioneers

The UAE Pioneers initiative recognising leaders of progress in the society has been launched for its second edition, ahead of the 44th National Day.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, called on the community to nominate “creative citizens” serving their country through their ideas and visions.

“This initiative is an effort to thank and honour these creative citizens who have left their imprints in the UAE’s progressive march, and their contributions will always be appreciated by the people of this country,” said Sheikh Mohammed.

Forty-three people were honoured last year, including the first doctor, inventor, professor, broadcaster, policewoman and other personalities, he said.

“By honouring the pioneers, we want to inspire in every person in the UAE the quest to attain the first position in their field of work and specialisation.

“We want to immortalise their names in history just as they have immortalised the name of the UAE through their work.”

The initiative is part of the National Day celebrations on December 2. Emiratis can nominate themselves or others as pioneers in areas including education, health, the economy, military, sport and innovation.